Yoga - In the Zone
By Gina | June 30, 2009
I decided to write some ramblings about my yoga practice. Why? Not sure. Just received a message to write about it, so here it is:
My first, ‘My Yoga Practice Ramblings’……For some reason today I was in a total zone with my yoga practice. Some days I feel stronger than others. Overall for the past couple months I feel like I have been much stronger in my practice.
Pre-Grave’s Disease…. I was very strong and could do yoga forever. I used to go to these killer 3 hour practices that my Anusara teacher at the time used to hold on some Saturdays. There would be other yoga teachers there and also some other serious-practicing yogis. I felt a little out of place at first, but this loving group totally put me at ease. I came to really enjoy gathering with a group of people who just came together to practice something they loved.
Diagnosis: Grave’s Disease…..It’s actually kind of ironic, but the reason I went to the doctor’s to get checked out was because my arms started quivering at the very beginning of a yoga class I was attending. I remember I was in downward dog, and my arms started shaking uncontrollably. I knew something was up. So after that class I made an appointment with my doctor and got a blood test.
Muscle weakness sets in…..One of the symptoms of Grave’s Disease is muscle weakness. There are many symptoms, but muscle weakness seemed to be my worst symptom besides some anxiety issues. I tried maintaining my regular yoga practice…NOT! My body did not let me. I would try and end up feeling sick after a class because I pushed myself too hard. Of course I tried again and again with the same result………feeling sick and like I could hardly walk because my muscles were zapped of all energy.
My AHA moment…..Then I ended up taking a yoga workshop at The Omega Institute with Seane Corne. I’ve been wanting to take her workshop and I decided to email her before I signed up to tell her about my condition. Her response is why I decided to sign up. She told me I could totally participate and said to listen to my body and take as many breaks as I needed and adjust my poses to what is right for me. That weekend was a huge step for me. I thought I may have to give up yoga because I couldn’t do it the way I used to.
Seane Corn’s workshop helped me make a huge shift….The workshop was Friday night through Monday morning. There was two full days of yoga - a total of 5 1/2 hours of yoga each day on Sat. and Sun. and 3 hours Friday night and Monday morning. I did what Seane said - I took a break and stayed in child pose when I needed to and I adjusted my practice so I could last all those hours of yoga. And guess what? I did last and it felt good!
From jumping to stepping and so on….So I went from jumping into plank pose to walking back into plank pose, from upward dog to cobra, from wheel to bridge, from 1 1/2 hours yoga class to a 20-30 minute home yoga practice and so on.
Post Grave’s….Strength is returning….At this moment, it feels like that anyway. What I’ve learned is things can change in a heart beat so right now, I’ll enjoy what is Now. Today I did a 30 minute practice - about 20 minutes of sun salutes and then some poses. I’ve been doing handstands again, still against the wall, but feel my balance is growing. I actually balanced without the wall for what felt like a minute, but was really only about 8 seconds :). I felt so good that I even tried shoulder stand and got up after the second attempt, but then came right back down. So I tried again, and made it up on the second attempt and held it for a few seconds. Then I did headstand and that felt really good too.
On to some balancing poses…..I decided to do Tree pose. I’ve been closing my eyes while in Tree pose and depending on the day, can hold it for a few seconds. I find it really hard to stay balanced with closed eyes, but feel like this is a good challenge. Today, held it for a few seconds with my left leg, but right leg was much stronger and held it with closed eyes for about 10 seconds. I also like to just stand on one leg, in no particular pose, just lifting one leg off the floor, and trying to hold that while closing my eyes. Held each leg about 20 seconds so today was a good day for balancing ;). I actually envision roots growing out of my solar plexus area of my foot that is on the floor and envision the root going deep into the earth - this usually helps me to balance even more and longer.
My favorite pose…..Yes, then I ended with a couple twists and my favorite, Shavasana! Ahh, love taking in all the bliss!
I’ve been doing a home practice now for the past 5 years or so. I’ve been thinking of venturing out into a class one day soon. When I think of taking a class, I get a little anxious because I think I may not feel good again by pushing myself too hard. I’ll keep ya posted and let you know if I do, and if I still listened to my body!
Do you have any yoga stories? Hit comments button and share!
Enjoy!
Gina
Topics: Personal Growth, yoga | Click To Comment »
Popeye Said - ‘Eat Your Spinach’
By Gina | June 29, 2009
I’ve been on a spinach kick for the past few months. I’ve come to find it’s so easy to add this power-house veggie to practically any meal.
Spinach is loaded with nutrients including iron, vit. K, vit. A, folate, magnesium, vit. C, vit. B2, calcium, potassium and lots more. I buy fresh, organic baby spinach and clean the amount I’ll need for each meal.
Here’s how I’ve been adding spinach into my meals:
- 99% of the time my breakfast is organic egg whites on a piece of gluten-free rice/pecan bread with a slice of organic cheese. Why not add a few spinach leaves? I clean about 5-6 leaves and add them to the meal - how easy was that?
- Having a salad? Clean a handful of fresh baby spinach and throw them in your salad.
- When I make a sandwich, I add a few spinach leaves - easy breezy!
- Having an omelete - throw in some spinach - and a little feta cheese - yum!
These are just a few ways to add spinach to your meals that are so darn easy.
Next time you are at the store, grab a package of organic baby spinach and then comment and let us know some ways you added spinach, and those powerful nutrients, to your meals.
Enjoy!
Gina
Topics: Using Your Senses | Click To Comment »
How To Stay Cool with Ayurveda
By Gina | June 24, 2009
As many of you may know, I believe in the ancient science of Ayurvedic principles and Janet Gomez has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to nutrition and using the principles of Ayurveda as they apply to food. Janet delivers some great tips in this article so I wanted to share it with you. Enjoy! Gina
How To Stay Cool
by Janet Gomez
Being able to enjoy the sun in the summer is great. The light lifts our spirits, our body can make plenty of Vitamin D and we’re just generally more relaxed.
In Ayurveda we know that the heat of the summer can also be a negative source of stimulation. We are typically much more active because of our increased energy levels and all this action produces heat within our bodies (fine as long as we don’t overheat!). What’s more, the general race to get as much done before going away on holiday can easily result in hot tempers etc.
We can use Ayurvedic nutritional knowledge to keep cool. So let me share my 9 top nutritional tips to keep both body and mind refreshed and alert this summer.
Eat
- cooling spices and plenty of fresh green herbs, for example, fennel and coriander seeds, mint, basil
- more green or pale (white) fresh fruits, vegetables and salads
- cereals and grains like rice, barley or millet
Drink
- plenty of (non-sparkling) water (at room temperature or slightly warm) throughout the day to hydrate even more quickly
- at least one glass of water for each hour you are in the air on any flight to and from your holiday destination
- lots of refreshing herbal teas such as mint and fennel
Cool down
- by avoiding coffee, alcohol (especially on flights!)
- with a refreshing rosewater face/body spray
- by practicing gentle yoga, walking or breathing exercises
Janet Gomez, nutritional consultant, produces the “Nutri-Jyoti News”, a free bi-monthly e-newsletter for busy professionals. Feel ready to learn how to use nutritional strategies to manage your energy levels? Then sign up for her FREE e-course “5 Nutritional Keys to Vitality in your Life” on the Nutri-Jyoti home page now.
Topics: Personal Growth | 1 Comment »
Messages Come In All Forms
By Gina | June 23, 2009
The Woodpecker's Message...
I just had a really cool experience and had to share it with you.
Just doing my thing… I was sitting at my desk working on my computer, and I started hearing this pecking noise outside. There’s a window in the center of my room where I can look out right from my desk. Anyway, this noise was calling to me so I looked up to check it out.
I spotted a woodpecker! I’ve heard a few woodpeckers since I moved into my new place and have only been able to see a woodpecker for a quick second. However, this one was right in a tree a little bit away from my window so I ran and grabbed my camera. As I was hurrying to open the camera case up, I decided to slow down, knowing that if I’m supposed to capture this little guy/gal, I will.
I not only got 1 pic, but 3… they all came out pretty darn good for taking them right outside my window. I slowly raised the screen on my window and started snapping away. It was so cool - he actually looks like he’s looking right at me in the pic above, doesn’t it?
Then I made a phone call… right after I had my little photo shoot. I called Joette, someone whom I’ve just met this past week and who I felt an instant connection to. So I told Joette about my little photo shoot I just had and she asked me ‘what did the woodpecker say to you?’ I stopped, and the first thing that came to me was ‘take a chance’. However, after getting off the phone with her, I realized the message loud and clear. It was to “Take a Break and Get Out In Nature!”
I knew this to be true… and the reason I knew this was it was a confirmation of a feeling I had just about an hour beforehand. A thought ran through my head that I’d like to go outside and take a break, but I didn’t. Well, that little woodpecker reminded me and thank you to Joette for reminding me to be open to receiving messages in whatever form they take!
And right now, I’m heading outside to take a little break…… 
Enjoy!
Gina
Topics: Personal Growth, Using Your Senses | 2 Comments »
Gaining Clarity with Essential Oils
By Gina | June 2, 2009
I’m working on a project now where I really need to pull in my focus and gain clarity. I need to become clear as to who I am serving and how I am going to deliver this amazing new service I am working on.
So of course I grab my essential oils and my diffuser. The blend I chose to use today includes essential oils that help with focus, clarity and concentration. Here are 3 of the oils I chose:
- Basil
- Lemon
- Rosemary
I’ve been using Aromatherapy daily for years and I am still amazed at how they affect me.
How would an Aromatherapy blend serve you? What issues do you face daily where essential oils - nature’s amazing gift - could help support you in going from a place of blah, to a place of ‘Oh Yea!’?
I’d love to know.
Inhale! Enjoy! Exhale!
Gina
Topics: Personal Growth | Click To Comment »
Turn Procrastination into Motivation!
By Gina | June 1, 2009
Ever find yourself having a project to do but you just can’t get yourself to start it?
That’s how I was feeling all day today. I did get some other things accomplished, but the one thing that’s been hanging over my head and that really needed to be done - yesterday - is still not done.
Aromatherapy to the rescue once again!!!
I decided to take action and use one of the tools in my arsenal that has helped me time and time again - my amazing essential oils.
I got my diffuser out, filled the top with water and lit the candle. Next I went over to all my essential oils and chose a blend that would help uplift my mood and get me motivated to start the task that has been evading me. Here are 3 of the essential oils I used:
Mandarin, Sweet Orange and Cinnamon
I already feel the difference and was inspired to even write this post :).
Now I’m off to attend to that other task with calmness, clarity and perseverance.
How has Aromatherapy helped you? Or maybe a better question is how can Aromatherapy serve you?
Leave a comment if you’d like to share. Thanks!
Enjoy!
Gina
Topics: Aromatherapy Luminary Tips, Personal Growth | 5 Comments »
What Do You Believe?
By Gina | May 30, 2009
“Examine the routine of suffering and break out.” ~Deepak Chopra
Why do we suffer?
After doing a bit of soul searching, I’ve come to believe that a big reason why I have suffered in the past and present as well, is because of the conditioned beliefs I took in as a kid growing up. These beliefs come from many places including family, school, friends, media etc. When we’re little, we’re like little sponges and we soak up all that is around us, including the beliefs of others.
How break out?
Examine your routine, as Deepak says, and become aware of the thoughts that make you suffer. If you feel anger, fear, or grief, what thought preceded those feelings? Try to remember it and then examine it.
Examine your beliefs.
Where did you first hear that belief? Was it a parent, sibling, teacher? Do you truly believe it to be true? What would it feel like it you didn’t have that belief anymore? Check in with yourself daily and become aware of your beliefs so you can decide, with awareness, if they are worth keeping or if it would benefit you to toss them out the door. Energetically feel how your body responds with and without that belief. What feels better?
Try it out…..
I invite you to break out and examine your beliefs to see what is true for you.
If you’d like, sign up for my report, Break~Out, Be~ Free, to discover 4 other empowering techniques to further initiate your inward journey.
Inhale~Enjoy~Exhale,
Gina
Topics: Personal Growth | Click To Comment »
Simple Gluten-free Apple Crisp!
By Gina | May 25, 2009
I get a great newsletter from Kripalu. They usually have some great vegetarian recipes on their newsletter. On one of them they had a recipe for an apple crisp - yum - I love any kind of crisp recipe!
So since I eat gluten-free, I changed a couple ingredients and wallah, a delicious gluten-free dessert! How do I know? Well, I already made it about 6 times in the last 6 weeks with different fruit combos. Check the recipe out below:
Topping:
- 1 cup gluten-free oats
- 1/3 cup ground flax seed
- 1/3 cup gluten-free baking flour
- pinch salt
- 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/2 cup Earth Balance
Bottom
- 3 apples, cored and cut in large dice
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 2 tablespoons gluten-free baking flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Combine all topping ingredients and set aside.
Core and cut apples, and toss with cinnamon and gluten-free flour. Pour cider into pan, then lay down apples. Spread topping on apples. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until apples reach desired softness. Remove cover and bake for another 10 minutes to crisp.
I like it warm with vanilla ice cream or soy ice cream. You can also vary the fruit or add things. I’ve made it also with apples and pears and with apples and blueberries. Both were really good and I also add some pecan pieces to the topping mixture which makes it really yummy!
I can’t wait to try it with peaches!
Enjoy!
Let me know how you like it if you end up baking this.
Topics: Using Your Senses | 2 Comments »
Self Care ~ Inner and Outer
By Gina | April 21, 2009
When you think of self care what comes to mind? Does your physical body come to mind? That’s good because you want to take care of your physical body - but what about your inner body? Ever think of that? It may seem like you have 2 selves: the inner and outer self.
How does that feel to you? To me it feels like two parts combining to form a whole. Both need to be taken care of in order for us to feel whole. It feels like 2 layers of fine fabric that get sewn and inter-woven together to create a brilliant design.
I feel like my outer self is the container which houses my inner self. Both are of utmost importance in order to exist in this form. If we neglect our outer self, our physical being, it’s like not taking care of our house - if you don’t maintain it, it will fall apart. If we neglect our inner self, we lose touch with our soul connection and we may feel unfulfilled or out of touch.
I try to take care of both my inner and outer being every day. This brings into play taking care of the physical, the mental, the emotional and the spiritual. If all these are in check, how can we not experience peace? But that’s not always the case - life happens. Life throws curve balls at us (on purpose I believe, at times) so we can practice and become aware of how good we are taking care of our being, as a whole. It’s not easy, but it’s worth taking time out every day to nurture and refuel our whole self, no matter what.
What are some activities you do on a daily basis to take care of your inner and outer self? Do you find it’s hard to fit it in every day? I do at times, but I totally feel the effects when I don’t take the time out.
Have any thoughts? Share them below.
Topics: Personal Growth | Click To Comment »
What Do You Want To Do When You Grow Up?
By Gina | April 7, 2009
How many times were you asked this question when you were growing up? I remember being asked countless times.
Why are we asked this question so much as children? It seems like there’s such importance put on this. Why can’t we just play and enjoy being kids instead of being rushed into thinking what the heck we want to do with our lives at such a young age.
Some of us as young children do know what we want to do and that’s great. Hopefully it is truly coming from the child and not from what everyone is telling him/her what he/she should be.
I remember my dad always saying to me, when I was growing up, that I should go into a field where my job would always be steady and needed such as a pharmacist. The ‘pharmacist’ scenario would show up periodically at different times as I was growing up. I know he was only doing what he thought was the best for me, but I have to say, thank goodness (and nothing against pharmacists) I didn’t become one. The reason being is it would have been solely to please him and not me.
I realize parents, teachers, friends and family are really only looking out for us, but I believe we all need to make that decision for ourselves and let it happen naturally. I know some people who were pressured into doing what they thought they wanted to do, but after time realized that it’s what someone else wanted for them. I also think many of us, into our adult lives, still aren’t sure what the heck it is we want to do when we grow up.
If this is resonating with you a little and you’d like to discover how to let others BE and find their own way, then check out this other post. If you want to discover how you can go about finding out what your life purpose is, then check out the abundant possibilities!
Many blessings and wishing you a life of doing and being what you Love!
Gina
Topics: Personal Growth | Click To Comment »
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